The Delta Flyer was originally developed by the crew of the starship Voyager as an alternative to their depleting shuttle supply. A smaller than normal runabout design, the Delta Flyer was better capable of handling the diverse mission roles the Voyager crew required.

The Delta Flyer incorporates some aspects of Borg technologies as well as other technological advancements procured by Voyager during its fateful tour of the Delta Quadrant. Plans for the shuttle were later sent back to the Alpha Quadrant and the class saw use on many Federation vessels and outposts.

Unlike the Danube Runabout or other Federation Super-Heavy Fighters, the Delta Flyer occupies only 3 shuttle boxes in a ship's hangar instead of 4.